WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve is raising its key interest rate for the third time this year and foresees three additional hikes in 2018, a vote of confidence that the U.S. economy remains on solid footing 8½ years after the end of the Great Recession.

Every December, carmakers and dealerships scramble to hit end-of-year goals and sell off vehicles from the outgoing model year. But this December might be one for the record books. Inventory is at unusually high levels, and the push to clear it will be far more aggressive than in years past. Rebates will be generous — particularly on sedans, which are not nearly as popular as SUVs. So bargain hunters can find significant savings.

Every December, carmakers and dealerships scramble to hit end-of-year goals and sell off vehicles from the outgoing model year. But this December might be one for the record books. Inventory is at unusually high levels, and the push to clear it will be far more aggressive than in years past. Rebates will be generous — particularly on sedans, which are not nearly as popular as SUVs. So bargain hunters can find significant savings.

Getting a deal during the holidays is a great American tradition. So when a sales clerk cheerfully asks, "Would you like to save 20 percent on your purchases today by opening a card with us?" it fits right in.

BERLIN (AP) — Germany's Lufthansa says it has withdrawn its bid for the Niki division of bankrupt Air Berlin as it tries to secure European Union approval for its planned takeover of much of what was once the country's second-biggest airline.